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Visiting woods

Best bluebell woods

See a stunning sea of blue this spring. Discover our best woods for bluebells.

Trees woods and wildlife

Leisler's bat

Tree-dwellers with a lion-like appearance, these fast-flying bats are scarce throughout Britain but common in Ireland.

Trees woods and wildlife

Sika deer

Not as grumpy as it looks, the sika deer’s furrowed brow sets it apart from other deer species. Introduced to the UK in 1860, it is rapidly increasing in numbers.

Practical guidance

The role of trees in sheep farming

Planting trees for shelter can boost production and improve animal health and welfare. This guide provides practical guidance on integrating trees on sheep farms.

PDF  (15.85 MB)

Video

Timber production during restoration in a County Antrim woodland

Continuing a 150 year history of woodland management the Shanes Castle estate is managing its woods for timber production whilst restoring the ancient woodland. 

00:05:20

Policy paper

Holding back the waters – trees and flood mitigation

Case studies demonstrating how trees and hedgerows on farmland can help reduce flood risk, surface water run-off and soil erosion, and protect riverbanks.

PDF  (1.82 MB)

Trees woods and wildlife

Alder buckthorn

A reputation for causing a bang. Alder buckthorn is used to make gunpowder, pigments and dyes. It’s a beloved plant of the brimstone butterfly.